* An ideal introduction to the entire process of setting up a Web site using PHP (a scripting language), MySQL (a database management system), and Apache (a Web server) * Programmers will be up and running in no time, whether they're using Linux or Windows servers * Shows readers step by step how to create several Web sites that share common themes, enabling readers to use these examples in real-world projects * Invaluable reading for even the experienced programmer whose current site has outgrown the traditional static structure and who is looking for a way to upgrade to a more efficient, user-friendly site * The companion Web site features sample PHP scripts, as well as two fully functional working applications from the book

From the Back Cover

PHP, Apache, and MySQL are the three key open source technologies that form the basis for most active Web servers. This book takes you step by step through understanding each -- using it and combining it with the other two on both Linux and Windows servers.

This book will guide you through creating your own sites using the open source AMP model. You’ll learn to install PHP, Apache, and MySQL. Then you’ll create PHP Web pages, including database management and security. Finally, you’ll discover how to integrate your work with e-commerce and other technologies. By building different types of Web sites, you will progress from setting up simple database tables to tapping the full potential of PHP, Apache, and MySQL.

When you’re finished, you will be able to create well-designed, dynamic Web sites using open source tools.

What you will learn from this book How PHP server-side scripting language works for connecting HTML-based Web pages to a backend database Syntax, functions, and commands for PHP, Apache, and MySQL Methods and techniques for building user-friendly forms How to easily store, update, and access information using MySQL Ways to allow the user to edit a database E-commerce applications using these three technologies How to set up user logins, profiles, and personalizations Proper protocols for error handling

Who this book is for

This book is for beginners who are new to PHP and who need to learn quickly how to create Web sites using open source tools. Some basic HTML knowledge is helpful but not essential.

Wrox Beginning guides are crafted to make learning programming languages and technologies easier than you think, providing a structured, tutorial format that will guide you through all the techniques involved.